What is the impact of implementing a "shift left" strategy on quality control costs?

Implementing a "shift left" strategy significantly impacts quality control costs by decreasing the costs associated with late discovery of defects. This strategy involves addressing quality issues earlier in the production process rather than waiting until later stages, such as final inspection or after the product has been released.

By identifying potential defects and quality issues in the initial stages of production, companies can reduce the need for extensive rework, scrap, or warranty services that arise when defects are discovered too late. Consequently, this proactive approach streamlines operations and reduces waste, ultimately leading to lower overall costs related to quality control.

The other options do not capture the essence of the "shift left" strategy effectively. Maintaining current cost levels does not reflect the potential for savings through early defect detection. Increasing costs due to more checks contradicts the goal of improving efficiency and reducing later expenditures. Focusing only on warranty costs overlooks the broader scope of quality control, which includes not only warranty issues but also production efficiency and customer satisfaction.